The battlelines in the row over the Government's education policy were laid down today by Labour MPs convinced it will mean a return to selection.

Former Education Secretary Estelle Morris is among a line-up of ex-ministers unveiling alternative plans in a bid to resolve the row.

Prime Minister Tony Blair is facing the threat of a crippling backbench rebellion over the plans for "independent" state schools, which may have to rely on Tory votes for approval.

Critics fear giving secondary schools greater independence from councils will allow them to introduce selection by the back door.

The compromise proposals, aimed at provoking a major debate, already have the backing of 50 backbenchers. Yesterday the launch of a new code on schools admissions was put on ice, sparking claims Tony Blair was caving in to pressure.